A diverse group of Philadelphia’s young artists and voices of the Civil Rights movements have turned their artistic abilities into nine sculptures of Martin Luther King.
These sculptures are located in various places in Philadelphia and each one is designed unlike the other. The sculptures include unique messages that convey different aspects of Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream. These range from “Democracy” to “Love is Better Than Hate.”
These two powerful forms of creative outlets – writing and art – pay an ode to one very powerful man. This is the artists’ way of bringing life to his words. Some are symbolic while others literally interpret his words. One statue, illustrated with storm clouds which call upon King’s words, says: “No person has the right to rain on your dreams.”
Next time you’re strolling around Philadelphia – whether that be City Hall, Temple University, or the African-American Museum, look out for these sculptures all throughout the month of February to honor Black History Month.
Justice
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” -Dr. Martin Luther King
Location: Comcast Center Plaza
Democracy
“Now is the time to make the real promises of Democracy.”
Location: Betsy Ross House
We are Sisters and Brothers
“I have a dream that one day… little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.”
Location: African American Museum in Philadelphia
Darkness and Light
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
Location: On the Art Museum steps
We Will Not Be Silent
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”
Location: City Hall
Love is Better than Hate
Location: Philadelphia School District Main Building
Our Dreams Matter
Location: The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
“No person has the right to rain on your dreams.”
(Talk about a perfect location.)
Brotherhood
“We must live together as brothers or perish as fools.”
Location: Our very own Temple University!
Doing What is Right
“The time is always right to do what is right.”
Location: On the Art Museum Steps
It’s inspiring to see young creatives embodying those quotes in such an alluring way, which will be carried on throughout their lives and inspire the lives of others – this message is important at all times, even after Black History month comes to an end.
Definitely check out these nine sculptures ASAP.